Manitou 14 by Necky

DESCRIPTION: In terms of Steadiness, the Manitou 14 has almost as much initial stability as the Manitou 13. However, the boat is substantially more steady than the typical 22in beam sea kayak . In terms of Seaworthiness, the Manitou 14 is a very capable craft. Although its 14ft length makes it unsuitable for most whitewater beyond Class I, the Manitou 14 with its Internal Skeg is very much at home in many open water situations.  Provided the paddler has some skill and knowledge of coastal paddling, the Manitou 14 can handle 3 ft seas and 20 knot winds. FYI, such days are not uncommon at the NC coast. For truly foul conditions, one is still better off in a full-on sea kayak. However, the Manitou 14 is particularly well suited for paddling on NCs larger lakes and reservoirs, enjoying the coast under moderate conditions while retaining the ability to perform well in moving water situations such as rivers with moderate current and tidal creeks.

In terms of efficiency, the Manitou 14 is noticeably quicker than the Manitou 13 though not nearly as fast as a 16ft Touring Kayak. The Manitou 14 is capable of covering 4 miles in an hour of paddling by the average paddler. 

In terms of maneuverability, the Manitou 14 is less maneuverable than a Manitou 13, much more maneuverable than a 14ft Rec Kayak and about on par with a well designed 16 ft sea kayak. The Manitou 14 is very well equipped with 2 hatches (with bulkheads) and an internal retractable skeg. The skeg is particularly useful for paddling on windy days. As with the rest of the Manitou series, you also get a comfortable, highly adjustable seat and full deck rigging with paddle-float rescue rigging. This is one of the least expensive Day Touring kayaks on the market.

RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES:

• Aquabound Stingray or Werner Camano Paddle
• Bilge Pump & Paddle Float Rescue
• Touring Specific PFD
• Kayak Cart
• Roof Rack Saddle or Cradle System

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